Doggzilla
Well-Known Member
Recently we had a discussion about electric and hybrid fixed wing aircraft, and it recently occurred to me that the hybrid tech which is only marginally useful in fixed wings would be exceptionally useful for rotor craft.
The newest generation of rotorcraft have drive props or jets attached to them, and it increases performance a significant margin. Hybrid motors can do the same for a fraction of the weight and complexity.
For instance, it allows a single motor to be used as a power source, and allows the full power to be diverted between the rotor or thrust motors.
The weight of the electric motors is exceptionally light, often less than the transmissions they would replace. And thats not counting the weight savings from removing a second powerplant.
It also allows the helicopter to be designed with far more performance and safety in mind, as the generator can be installed behind the crew compartment instead of over it. This would significantly improve balance and aerodynamics.
Hybrids might not be a big improvement for fixed wing, but they would be an absolutely huge improvement for rotorcraft.
The newest generation of rotorcraft have drive props or jets attached to them, and it increases performance a significant margin. Hybrid motors can do the same for a fraction of the weight and complexity.
For instance, it allows a single motor to be used as a power source, and allows the full power to be diverted between the rotor or thrust motors.
The weight of the electric motors is exceptionally light, often less than the transmissions they would replace. And thats not counting the weight savings from removing a second powerplant.
It also allows the helicopter to be designed with far more performance and safety in mind, as the generator can be installed behind the crew compartment instead of over it. This would significantly improve balance and aerodynamics.
Hybrids might not be a big improvement for fixed wing, but they would be an absolutely huge improvement for rotorcraft.